PreGISP® Program
Your First Step Toward Becoming a GISP®
The PreGISP® Program is designed for students and recent college graduates who are beginning their professional careers in the geospatial field.
The PreGISP® Exam provides an opportunity to demonstrate foundational geospatial knowledge and earn the GISP-E (Emerging GIS Professional) credential.
The GISP-E is a time-limited, entry-level credential designed to recognize individuals as they transition from academic study into professional practice.
Who Is the GISP-E For?
The GISP-E is specifically designed for individuals who are:
- In their final semester of college, or
- Recent college graduates, and
- Have less than one year of post-graduation professional experience*.
If you meet these requirements, the PreGISP Exam may be an appropriate next step as you begin your geospatial career.
* - For the November 2026 and April 2027 exams, the experience requirement is less than two-years.
Why Earn the GISP-E?
The GISP-E can help you:
- Demonstrate your foundational knowledge of the geospatial profession.
- Show prospective employers your commitment to professional standards.
- Distinguish yourself as you begin your career.
- Demonstrate your commitment to the GISCI Code of Ethics.
- Establish a foundation for pursuing the full GISP® certification later in your career.
A Credential for the Beginning of Your Career
The GISP-E is intentionally designed to be a short-term credential.
The credential:
- May be earned only once.
- Is valid for three years.
- Cannot be renewed.
- Provides a bridge between academic preparation and the experience required for the full GISP certification.
Because the GISP-E is time-limited, there is no benefit to earning it earlier than necessary. Students who are continuing directly into graduate school or are not yet transitioning into professional employment should consider when the credential will provide the greatest value.
The GISP-E is intended to be most useful when you are finishing your education or beginning your professional career.
Ready to Get Started?
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can register for the next PreGISP Exam.
[Learn About Eligibility]
[Sign Up for the PreGISP Exam]
[Prepare for the PreGISP Exam]
The Path to GISP®
The GISP-E is an optional first step toward the full GISP certification.
After earning the GISP-E, individuals can continue building the professional experience, education, and contributions needed for the full GISP credential.
GISP-E holders may qualify for the GISP with three years of professional experience rather than the standard four-year experience requirement, provided all other GISP requirements are met.
[Explore the Pathway to GISP]